The Gundam NT-1's development was carried out by the Augusta Base, originally a facility that researched issues relating to soldiers' mental health, it was chosen because some of its researchers published essays proving the Newtype concept. For additional protection, it was equipped with a set of optional Chobam armor, earning it the nickname "Alex", which was derived from the model number prefix "RX" and the acronym "Armor Layered EXamination", the project name of its armor.
To ensure the extra weight from the Chobam armor does not hinder its mobility, the NT-1 was designed with expanded propellant capacity in mind. Inspired by the Zeon concept of using the leg itself as a large vernier unit, it was fitted with propellant tank/sub-thruster hybrid units on its legs. It was also fitted with a large number of additional thrusters, both to improve its mobility and to compensate for the added weight of its armor.